‘Then he will be ready for us’ – Charlton boss Nathan Jones maps out Miles Leaburn first-team selection return

Charlton boss Nathan Jones says Miles Leaburn will be back in contention for his first-team squad so long as he comes through tomorrow’s U21 clash at Watford unscathed.

The 20-year-old underwent surgery for a serious hamstring injury in December with the Addicks and has been eased back into action with diligent care.

Leaburn spent six weeks at St George’s Park in the summer with Game Changer Performance and made his playing return last Friday for the U21 side – starting the first 45 minutes against Leeds United before coming off at half-time.

Jones said: “Miles will play again tomorrow at Vicarage Road with the U21s. We need to get over that hurdle, and then he will be with us full-time and available for matches.

“He played 45 in the development game. He’s going to play an hour and then he will be ready for us.

“It’s great to see him back, first and foremost for the boy. For a young player, 19 or 20 years of age, to get an injury and be out for 10 to 11 months, that’s mentally tough.

“He’s got a good support network here. The club have been magnificent with him, and we have been patient to get him to a place where we’re comfortable he can handle the rigours of playing for Charlton again.

“He’s shown a stellar attitude – he’s grafted and been patient. 

“It’s great to see him back. For me, it’s a brand-new player. Although he’s played for Charlton plenty of times, he hasn’t played for me.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing him.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD